Captain Richard C. Day, 96, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026. Affectionately known as Dick to many, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and retired New York State Police Captain of Troop B in Malone.

Born in Westerleigh, N.Y., he was the son of the late Augustine Day and Lorena (Lashway) Day. He attended school in Plattsburgh, N.Y., and graduated from Mount Assumption Institute in Plattsburgh, N.Y. He later attended Champlain College and the State University of Albany.

Dick was strong-willed his entire life. He graduated high school at 16 and, determined to serve his country, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps by adjusting his paperwork to meet the age requirement. That determination carried through every part of his life.

He proudly served during World War II and was later called back during the Korean War, where he served as an explosives expert.

After his military service, he dedicated his life to law enforcement with the New York State Police. He enlisted as a State Trooper in 1952, advanced to Corporal in 1960, and was promoted to First Sergeant in 1962, Lieutenant in 1968, Zone Commander in 1970, and Captain of Troop B in Malone in 1975, a rank he held until his retirement in 1978. During his distinguished career, he also taught at the New York State Police Academy and received numerous commendations in recognition of his service, leadership, and dedication.

After retirement, he served for many years as the Franklin County Democratic Chairman and sat on the Franklin County Fair Board. Dick was a longtime member of the Franklin County Community Action Agency and the Franklin County Historical and Museum Society, where he enjoyed teaching at the House of History. He was a past Commandant of the Marine Corps League, member of the American Legion in Chateaugay and a lifetime member of the Malone Lodge of Elks.

On July 17, 1950, he married the love of his life, Arlene (Stiles) Day. Their marriage was built on loyalty, love, and a lifetime of shared memories.

Dick and Arlene especially cherished their daily trips to the Cherry Knoll, where they were welcomed like family and built lasting friendships. After her passing, Dick continued those visits, finding comfort in the familiar place and the people who meant so much to them both.

Dick was an avid New York Yankees fan and rarely missed a chance to cheer them on.

He is survived by his children, Richard H. and Sharon Day of Depew, N.Y.; Daniel C. Day and his companion Roxanne Boadway of Malone; and Amanda Day of Malone; his son-in-law, Leonard Spinner, widower of his daughter Lucinda A. Spinner; his siblings, Brian LaPlante (Lucie) of Malone, N.Y., and Elaine LaPlante (Dottie Ducatte) of Keeseville, N.Y.; and his grandchildren, Stephanie Demers (Carl Demers III) of Constable, N.Y.; Sarah Spicer (Marcus Spicer) of Malone; Arianna Munn (William Munn) of Saranac Lake, N.Y. ; Beth O'Kussick (Lee O'Kussick) of Grovetown, Ga.; and Jeffrey Day of Lockport, N.Y. He also leaves many cherished great-grandchildren, along with nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who loved him very much.

He was predeceased by his infant son David Day, his daughter Lucinda A. Spinner, his sister Jean Moore, and his beloved wife Arlene.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and aides at Alice Hyde Medical Center for the care and compassion given to Dick during his final days.

Calling hours will be held Monday, May 18, 2026, from 4pm to 7pm at Bruso Funeral Service in Malone. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Notre Dame Church on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 10:30am.

Dick will be remembered for his strong will, his loyalty to family, and the steady presence he was in all of our lives. His legacy lives on in the family he built, protected, and loved so deeply.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Foothill EMS Ambulance Service.